Meet: Gladys Agwai!

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:Hi! I am Gladys Agwai, a previous corporate executive for IBM in the US, Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya and now Founder and CEO of Ignite Within.  Ignite Within provides clients with clarity of purpose and objectives with a plan to move them away from their fears related to leadership and transitions in their life, business, or career whether wanted, needed, or forced.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest? I worked in executive leadership roles in corporate for 30 years and got fired. Yes, fired! I found myself in a forced transition resulting in feelings of uncertainty, various fears, thinking how did I get here, what do I do now/next? And, as I thought about it, those feelings were familiar throughout my career and it has continued as a business owner whenever I am outside of my comfort zone. 

I took myself successfully through a process to get clarity, create a strategic plan, connect with purpose, communicate my new brand, and to capitalize on opportunity to make a transformation in my life as a business owner. Throughout my global experiences, I realized others also want, need, or been forced into a transition but felt and were stuck, scared, and financially challenged. Leaders focus on leading others but not leading themselves.  Most people needed guidance and direction to make the transition and it aligned with and my highest purpose to bring out the potential in others. 
 
What is among the most common challenge that you help professionals/ entrepreneurs overcome? The most common challenge is helping my clients overcome the feeling of being stuck, not clear about their next move, and scared to make a move because of a lack of clarity.  All of this impacts their financial growth and peace of mind in knowing and being who they are meant to be – unapologetically. 
 
When speaking to an audience, what are the key messages you want them to take away? The key speaker takes are:

• During uncertainty, you can get your power back by understanding what you’re uncertain about and why.  Also, to focus on what you can be certain about to build your confidence. 
• You do not have to be an imposter in your life.  Allowing others to define who you are and what you do.  Others should not know you better than you know yourself.  Take the time to sit with yourself to get to know what you want, why you want it, and what you’re willing to sacrifice to get it.  Then take action.
• Leadership begins with you.  When leading others, ensure you know what you need to lead you first. 
• Know YOU – Be YOU – Love YOU – Unapologetically!

What is next for your brand/business in 2018?I wanted to take my speaking business to the next level and been working with a business coach focused on establishing a six-figure speaking and coaching business.  It’s working and I’m still having fun.  I am continuing to grow this area of my business and will be expanding into Africa later this year.  I continue to help people understand that the most important investment one can make is in themselves.  We invest in everyone and everything else.  It’s time to realize that YOU MATTER!
 
How can readers connect with you online and through social media? Ignite Within is very active on all social media platforms along with providing pertinent information to transform lives via email and my website.  How to connect is noted below.  I look forward to connecting to everyone and including you in my global circle. 
Website: ignitewithin.org
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/gladysagwai
Facebook: @ignitewithin
Twitter and Instagram: @ignitewithinu
Email: gladys@ignitewithin.org
Phone: 404-317-2055